If you look up a travel itinerary for Hong Kong, it’s pretty much guaranteed that every single one will suggest a trip to Victoria Peak. The famed views of the skyline would be enough of an attraction on their own, but there are also walking trails, family entertainment, delicious dining options and a rich history that draws visitors but also keeps the locals coming back. Read on for our suggestions on how to make the most out of your trip to this prestigious peak.
How to get there
Peak Tram
Peak Tram Lower Terminus, 33 Garden Road, CentralStandard tickets: Adults HK$62.00 single, HK$88.00 return
Peak Tram Sky Pass (Tram ride + Sky Terrace 428): Adults HK$122.00 single, HK$148.00 return
There are a few different ways to get up to the Peak, depending on how much you want to spend (money or energy wise). The most iconic (and therefore busiest) option is to take the Peak Tram. Operating for over 130 years now, this is one of the world’s oldest funicular railways and is steeped in history. It’s gone through several changes over the years with its latest facelift occurring in August 2022. It’s definitely worth facing the crowds to travel at least one way to or from the Peak.
Tickets are available to purchase at the lower station but save yourself some time and pre book your tickets online. Standard tickets are available, both single and returns as well as packages that include access to the Sky Terrace or Madame Tussauds museum.
Public Transport
If you’re on a tighter budget, then the number 15 bus is your friend! Running every 7 to 15 minutes, the bus costs HK$9.60 (don’t forget your octopus card) and starts at the public ferry piers in Central but also stops throughout Central and Admiralty before beginning its ascent up to the Peak. Try to sit on the top deck near a window (on the right hand side on the way up) to catch those views.
The bus drops you at the bus station by the Peak Galleria so head back there if you wish to take the bus on the way back down too.
If your budget can stretch a little further, a taxi would cost approx HK$65.00–HK$85.00 (depending on traffic). Whilst this would be much quicker than the bus, the views just aren’t the same from the back of a cab.
The Morning Trail
If you’re not so keen on crowds (or trams) then you do have the option of walking. Bear in mind that whilst it’s not a particularly difficult hike, the Morning Trail is around 2800m long and is mostly uphill so you definitely want to wear comfortable shoes. Don’t be discouraged though! If the walk doesn’t take your breath away, the views certainly will. Snaking its way through the lush greenery, the gaps between the trees reveal more and more the further you climb so you have plenty of excuses to stop and take it all in.
If you’re starting from Central, you need to get up to Conduit Road. The most straightforward way to do this is to hop on the Mid-Levels Escalator, keeping in mind that the escalator goes downhill before 10:30am then switches to go uphill so aim to get there after then. Enjoy the ride through Mid Levels all the way up to Conduit Road then turn right and walk around 15 minutes until you reach Hatton Road. Turning left onto Hatton, you’ll see the Morning Trail sign and it’s all uphill from there!
Eventually you’ll come across a left turn for Lugard Road which will lead you round to the Peak Tower — congrats, you made it! If you don’t fancy doing this option uphill, you could always get the tram or bus uphill and meander back down the trail instead. For more on walking, see our guide to hiking the peak.
What to do at The Peak
Victoria Peak Garden
Popular with local families and dog owners, Victoria Peak Garden is a lush, green and shaded public park that hasn’t changed much since the colonial period in which it was built. Formerly a private garden for the Governor’s summer residence, the park is filled with pagodas, manicured lawns and lots of shady spots — ideal for a picnic or to take a breather from all that sightseeing.
Sky Terrace 428
The Peak Tower, 128 Peak RdStandard tickets: Adult HK$75.00
Peak Tram Sky Pass (Tram ride + Sky Terrace 428): Adults HK$122.00 single, HK$148.00 return
If it’s views you’re after, then the highest floor of the Peak Tower is the place to find them. Offering 360 degree panoramic views of HK’s iconic cityscape, this open air observation deck is perfectly located to help you get the most out of your photos. The Peak Tower itself is filled with shops and dining options but as this is the biggest tourist trap up here, expect things to be fairly over priced. Tickets for the Sky Terrace can be purchased separately but best to consider getting them as a combo deal and get a tram ticket too to get the biggest bang for your buck.
Madame Tussauds
Shop P101, The Peak Tower, 128 Peak Rd11am-8pm (Mon-Sun & Public Holidays). Last Admission: 7pm
Standard ticket: (with online booking discount): Adult HK$230.00 (book here)
Combo deal with Peak Tram return ticket: Adult HK$265.00
If the weather isn’t that great outside, or you need something a little more entertaining for the kids, head inside the Peak Tower and find the Madame Tussauds wax museum. The museum features almost 100 life-like wax replicas of iconic celebrities, both local and international from the worlds of sport, history, politics, and entertainment.
There are no restrictions on photo taking, or barriers around the figures so snap away as you wish!
Where to Dine
Rajasthan Rifles
G/F, The Peak Galleria, Hong KongMonday to Thursday: 12–9pm, Friday: 12–10pm, Saturday & Sunday: 8:30–11am, 12–9pm
Around HK$200.00—HK$400.00
Inspired by the Anglo-Indian mess halls that fed British and Indian Armies during the 1920’s, Rajasthan Rifles perfectly blends classic elements from Indian and British cuisine to create a mouth watering menu.
Located right opposite the Peak Tram and with some outdoor seats available too, this is the perfect spot to get a bite to eat or just sit back with a cocktail after you’ve done the touristy stuff.
Tip: There’s also a breakfast menu available on weekends, so get up early and walk the Morning Trail up there so you can reward your hard work after!
Wildfire Pizza
Monday to Friday: 12pm-10pm, Saturday, Sunday & PH: 11am-10pmAround HK$150.00–HK$250.00
Though the pizzas here are seriously delicious (made to order, thin crust and wood fired), they aren’t what makes this branch of Wildfire Pizza worth mentioning. Rather, it’s the floor to ceiling glass windows and the views they offer that make those pizzas taste very special indeed. Open for lunch and dinner, this is an affordable option where everyone in your group should be able to find something they like.
Mak’s Noodles
12-13, L1/F, The Peak GalleriaMonday–Sunday: 10am–10:30pm
Around HK$50.00—HK$100.00
Famed for their wonton noodles across HK, Mak’s Noodles is one of the most famous noodle establishments in the city. Their portions are small and not the cheapest (compared to other noodle places around) but any dumpling and noodle expert will be able to taste how Mak’s earned their Michelin star!
